As the old adage says: forewarned is forearmed.
This being the start of what promises to be a long, hot summer, there are numerous seasonal incidents and dangers that can with a certain amount of certainty be predicted.
And if they can be expected, some preparation can be done to either avoid them or to know how to best react and respond.
Alcohol abuse is number one on the list of dangers, since alcohol and celebrations are
often portrayed as necessary partners.
With extra holiday bonus money available, the liquor outlets will again do a roaring trade, and many who buy the products will not consume them responsibly.
Drinking and driving will be one inevitable consequence, which means motorists should
exercise extra vigilance and should stay off the roads as much as possible on certain high risk days and times to avoid becoming accident victims.
If attending parties and functions, designated drivers should be prearranged.
Alcohol abuse will also lead to issues such as domestic violence, especially againstwomen, children, the elderly and other vulnerable sectors of the population.
Drunkenness also heightens the chances of becoming a victim of crime, especially of sexual abuse – which often happens when the victim is inebriated – as well as theft of possessions such as cell phones and wallets.
Theft from houses of those holidaying away, as well as from vehicles where items of value can clearly be seen inside, are potential risks.
Drownings are also a seasonal hazard and swimming should only be done at beaches where
lifeguards are present.
In that regard, sunburn and dehydration can catch bathers unawares, especially those not accustomed to Zululand’s high heat and humidity.
Watch out also for broken bottles, braai fires covered by sand and other menaces commonly encountered at recreational spots.
The summer high temperatures also generate fierce storms, with lightning strikes and flash floods often a threat and cause for caution.
Snakes are out of hibernation now and could be seeking shelter in the shade, so one must always be on the alert.
Sadly, it is also the time of year when depression sets in for many, be it from retrenchments, loneliness, exam results or any other factor.
In all the above, please ensure you have police, rescue, counselling and other emergency numbers at hand –preferably on speed dial.
